Symptom: Brief sensitivity to hot or cold foods

Possible problem: If this discomfort only lasts only moments, it indicates pulpal inflammation. However it may be transient and self-limiting. The sensitivity may be caused by a small decay, a loose filling or by minimal gum recession that exposes small areas of the root surface.

What to do: Using a desensitising tooth paste may help. If this is unsuccessful, seeing a general dentist for advice and treatment is advised.

Symptom: Sensitivity to hot or cold foods after dental treatment

Possible problem: Dental work may inflame the pulp inside the tooth causing temporary sensitivity.

What to do: Wait two to four weeks. If the pain persists or worsens, see your general dentist.

Symptom: Sharp pain when biting down on food

Possible problem: There are several possible causes of this type of pain: decay, a loose filling or crack in the tooth. There may also be damage to the pulp tissue inside the tooth.

What to do: See a dentist for evaluation. If the problem is pulp tissue damage, your dentist may refer to an endodontist for root canal treatment, which involves removal of the damaged tissue and sealing of the root canals.

Symptom: Lingering pain after eating hot or cold foods

Possible problem: This probably means the pulp has been damaged by deep decay or physical trauma.

What to do: See your endodontist to save the tooth with root canal treatment.

Symptom: Constant & severe pain and pressure, swelling of gum & sensitivity to touch

Possible problem: A tooth may have become abscessed, causing an infection in the surrounding gingival tissue and bone.

What to do: See your endodontist for evaluation and treatment to relieve the pain and save the tooth.

Symptom: Dull ache and pressure in upper teeth and jaw

Possible problem: The pain from a sinus headache is often felt in the face and teeth. Grinding of teeth, a condition known as bruxism, can also cause this type of ache.

What to do: For sinus headache, see your GP. For bruxism, consult your dentist. If pain is severe and chronic, see your endodontist for evaluation.